20th Sunday After Pentecost – 14th October 2012

Dear friends, this week a wonderful priest and friend (The Reverend Doctor Ann McElligott) said her farewells, placed her hand in Jesus hand and stepped into eternity. She knew that it was time… and she, together with her son (Agen) included us in her final walk. Another friend shared her farewell message in the words of the following poem. I wanted to share it with you all, as I believe that the words can speak to us all.

Entering Death

I pray that you will have the blessing

Of being consoled and sure about your death.

 

May you know in your soul

There is no need to be afraid.

 

When your time comes, may you have

Every blessing and strength you need.

 

May there be a beautiful welcome for you

In the home you are going to.

 

You are not going somewhere strange,

Merely back to the home you have never left.

 

May you live with compassion

And transfigure everything

Negative within and about you.

 

When you come to die,

May it be after a long life.

 

May you be tranquil

Among those who care for you.

 

May your going be sheltered

And your welcome assured.

 

May your soul smile

In embrace

Of your Anam Cara.                                           John O’Donohue

In the Irish language “The anam cara is a person to whom you can reveal the hidden intimacies of your life. This friendship results in a sense of recognition and belonging.”

Love and blessings

Reverend Shan